True Wisdom – James 3:13-18
16. True Wisdom is gentle and kind.
Isaiah 40:10-11; Proverbs 15:4; 2 Timothy 2:23-26
Behold, the Lord God comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young. (Isaiah 40:10-11)
Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. (2 Timothy 2:23-26)
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. (Proverbs 15:4)
Study it Out
- According to 2 Timothy 2, what is the opposite of engaging in foolish, ignorant arguments? What is one motivation for gentleness that is given in this passage? Can you muster up gentle and kind responses on your own?
- What are some consequences of allowing our flesh to control our tongues? (The first part of James 3 may be helpful to consider.) What is the fruit of kindness?